Windows Defender Scam - How to Protect Yourself

Microsoft will never include a phone number in its error messages, demand payment via crypto/gift cards, or ask you to call them to unlock your PC.

What to Do Right Now (If It's On Your Screen)

Do not panic, do not click anywhere on the page, and do not call the number or download any remote access tools like TeamViewer or UltraViewer. Follow these steps to force-close the fake warning:

1. Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete on your keyboard and select Task Manager.
2. Kill Your Browser: Find your web browser (e.g., Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, or Brave) in the list of applications.
3. End Task: Click on the browser name, then click End Task in the top or bottom right corner. This will force the scam screen to vanish entirely.
4. Do Not Restore Tabs: When you reopen your browser, if it asks you to "Restore closed tabs," click No or close the prompt, otherwise the fake scam page will load right back up.

If You Already Interacted with the Scammers

If you fell victim to the prompt and allowed the scammers into your computer, take immediate action to secure your data:

• If you gave them remote access: Immediately disconnect your computer from the internet (unplug the Ethernet cable or disconnect from Wi-Fi). Go to your Windows Settings, locate the app they made you install (like UltraViewer, AnyDesk, or TeamViewer), and uninstall it immediately.
• If you provided financial information: Contact your bank or credit card company immediately. Inform them that you were targeted by a tech support scam, freeze your accounts, and request replacement cards.
• If you gave them passwords: Change the passwords for your email, online banking, social media, and Microsoft accounts using a separate, secure device.
• Run a Security Scan: Re-enable your legitimate built-in antivirus by opening Windows Security, and run a Full Scan to ensure no stealth malware or backdoors were left behind.

How to Prevent These Pop-Ups in the Future

These pop-ups usually stem from malicious ads on streaming, torrenting, or third-party download sites. To block them, ensure you keep Microsoft Defender Antivirus running, download software only from official sources, and consider using an ad-blocker or using Microsoft Edge, which utilizes SmartScreen features to screen out known tech-support fraud networks.